Recent research revealed more evidence for the effectiveness of freeze-drying as a preservation method for breastmilk. Adding to the long history of freeze-dried breastmilk research, these findings highlight its ability to maintain nutritional integrity, support long-term storage, and provide everyday, practical benefits for mamas and their babes. Get ready to be blown away by this 2025 study, what it reveals about freeze-drying breastmilk the long-term benefits for you and your babe.
What the Research Found
Preservation of Nutritional Value
Freeze-drying breastmilk retains its core macronutrients, such as fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, even after 12 months of storage (this is how long the study lasted). This contrasts with traditional freezing, which can lead to nutrient degradation over time.
Proteins and Enzymes
Key proteins, including immunoglobulins that protect your babe against bacteria and viruses, remain stable. Enzymes are critical for digestion and absorption and for retaining their activity.
Fats and Lactose
The study confirmed that freeze-dried milk maintains the same fat and lactose levels as fresh milk, ensuring that the energy and essential fatty acids your babe needs are preserved.
Bioactive Components Remain Intact
Breastmilk contains bioactive elements that promote infant health and development, such as antibodies, growth factors, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Research shows these components are not significantly altered during freeze-drying, so the milk’s protective properties are preserved.
Shelf Stability Without Cold Storage
Freeze-dried milk was shown to remain stable for 12 months at room temperature (this is how long the study was conducted). Unlike frozen milk, which requires constant refrigeration, freeze-dried breastmilk eliminates the need for a cold supply chain. This makes it particularly valuable in resource-limited settings or emergencies, where access to consistent refrigeration may be challenging.
Microbial Safety
The process does not introduce microbial contamination, and freeze-dried milk remains microbiologically safe during storage. The study also found no significant changes in the milk’s safety profile when stored at room temperatures, meaning - it remains suitable for infant consumption.
Metabolite Stability
Your breastmilk contains metabolites. Metabolites are like tiny helpers in your body that keep everything running smoothly!
Metabolites are vital because they help support your babe’s growth, brain development, and immune system. They include nutrients like lactose (a type of sugar), fatty acids, and unique compounds that protect your baby from getting sick.
These metabolites were stable across different storage conditions (-20°C, 4°C, and room temperature) and time points up to a year. This confirms that freeze-drying preserves not just nutrients but also the complex biochemical composition of milk.
Why Freeze-Drying Your Breastmilk is Important
Long-Term Storage
The research supports the idea that freeze-dried breastmilk can be stored for extended periods without compromising quality. This provides a reliable option for busy mamas like you who want to save your breastmilk for the later stages of your babe’s growth or for situations where “fresh from the tap” or frozen milk might not be available.
Adding to Foods
As your babe transitions to solids, your freeze-dried milk can be mixed into purees, cereals, or smoothies, ensuring they continue to benefit from the nutrients and bioactive properties of your milk. Continue adding your freeze-dried breastmilk to your older babes' foods to give them probiotics, nutrient boosts and antibodies to protect them as they grow (and enter daycare/school when they are exposed to a revolving door of germs).
Travel and Emergency Use
Your lightweight, shelf-stable, and travel-friendly breastmilk powder makes it perfect for on-the-go feeding, wherever, whenever. Most importantly, during power outages, when frozen milk might not remain viable and stress levels are already heightened, your freeze-dried breastmilk is there for you.
Never Waste a Drop
Freeze-drying helps you get the most out of your liquid gold. Unlike frozen milk, which may spoil if improperly stored or thawed, freeze-dried breastmilk remains safe and usable over years. There are no time limits and no stress over keeping your stash chilled.
Scientifically Backed for Busy, Everyday Moms
This research highlights freeze-drying as a cutting-edge preservation method that prioritizes both nutrition and practicality. For you, this means having a safe, reliable way to provide your babes with the full benefits of your breastmilk years after pumping. All the essential nutrients and protective compounds are maintained. Freeze-drying offers a scientifically validated solution to simplify feeding and support your babe’s health long after the bottle/breastfeeding stage.
Whether for bottles, baby food, or emergency use, freeze-drying your breastmilk makes motherhood a little bit easier and gives your babes the very best—and breast.
Book your Booby Food service today and get a head start on protecting your babe's health for years.
